Bailey Rowe knows all about respecting women and speaking up if he sees anyone being violent towards them.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Dungog Public School student may only be in year 6 but he learnt about respect and caring towards women at a school assembly held on White Ribbon Day on Tuesday.
White Ribbon is Australia’s only national, male-led campaign to end men’s violence against women.
It is the world’s largest male-led movement to end men’s violence against women.
Originating in Canada in 1991, White Ribbon is now active in more than 60 countries.
In Australia it is known as White Ribbon Day and is held annually on November 25.
Dungog Shire Community Centre manager Sarah U’Brien spoke at the public school’s assembly saying everyone knows or works with someone who has been affected.
“The centre has worked with a number of sons who are doing the same thing as their fathers,” she said.
“They don’t know any different.
“These children see it then go to school or to work. They live with it day in and day out.
“When we are silent it’s the most cruel thing we can do.”
Ms U’Brien said it wasn’t just physical, it’s also the verbal abuse too.
A number of Dungog High School’s year 10 students attended the assembly and then played games with the younger students.
Zac Van Dam said they broke into groups and played oz-tag and tennis.
“The focus wasn’t on winning but being respectful and sharing the ball,” he said.
“The winning teams were the ones who showed the most respect to their team and opposing players.
“We also discussed respect to our fellow students and others in the playground.”